Catholic Church responds to Royal Commission terms of reference

CEO of the newly-formed Truth, Justice and Healing Council Francis Sullivan spoke today on the terms of reference for the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse announced by Attorney General Nicola Roxon at 12pm.

“We welcome the appointment of commissioners and once again, commit to fully cooperate and engage with the Royal Commission and its deliberations,” he said.

“At its heart, the Royal Commission needs to let the full truth come out and ensure that the dignity of those who have been damaged by these atrocities is preserved, that they are supported, and not subject to a reliving of their experiences.”

“It is essential that the Commission’s process contribute to the healing of the victims, and assist them to process what has happened.”

“The church stands ready and willing to assist in any way that is deemed effective.”

“Apart from participating fully in the Royal Commission, the Church will embark on its own processes of atonement and healing to bring light, hope and compassion to this very dark episode.